Ever since installing Big Sur, whenever I shut down and then restart my computer, the wallpaper changes from my selection back to the default. I am using an external display (1080p). Perhaps the new dynamic wallpapers are not meant for this resolution? I tried a still image wallpaper also and the same issue occurs. Is anyone else experiencing this? Is this a known issue?
Thank you,
DK
MacBook
I have found a workaround for MacBooks:
I'm not sure why this worked but for now it is a sufficient workaround.
DK
I submitted this as a bug when I was on the Big Sur beta . Apple replied to say it is "working as designed". Clearly that can't be right. And I can't do the 'disconnect the monitor' workaround, as I'm on a Mac mini. If I disconnect the monitor then I have no monitor.
I had the same problem on my iMac, but found a solution. The key is that the picture you want to have as your desktop wallpaper must be in the Pictures folder listed in the System Preferences>Desktop & Screen Saver left panel where the Apple drop down is also available. Place the picture or pictures you want for your desktop wallpaper in the appropriate User>Pictures folder and then navigate to that/those picture(s) using the System Preferences>Desktop & Screen Saver left panel "Folders" drop down "Pictures." Simply select the picture and it will automatically change. Survived multiple Restarts with this solution.
I have this same issue while using an external monitor with my MacBook Air running Big Sur. I tried the workaround that you mentioned, however, it did not solve the issue for me.
After turning the device on again (while not connected to the external monitor - workaround step 5), the wallpaper is set to the image that I selected. Once the external monitor is attached (workaround step 6), the MacBook desktop returns to the default wallpaper. When I disconnect the external monitor, the wallpaper returns to the previously selected wallpaper.
One point of detail that may prove helpful in finding a solution: my external monitor is set to be the primary display when attached. I am not sure if that is the cause, but thought it might be helpful information.
If anyone has found a solution, please let us know. I would love to stop changing my desktop wallpaper each day!
Cheers!
I have same issue with my external monitors. The Wallpaper selection is not saved.
I plan to submit feedback here:
On my Mac Mini, it's the primary monitor that always starts with the ugly default Big Sur wallpaper. The second display is always correct.
I swapped where the monitors were plugged in, and it's OK now.
I would like someone at Apple to tell me whether I'm stuck with the Big Sur background after restarting by design?
[Edited by Moderator]
Incorrect.
I'm not even on a MacBook and this is happening to me on Big Sur 11.1
Mac Mini M1 connected via HDMI to a Sony Vizio 32 inch tv.
You guy's are not alone. Just know that.
I rarely have the problem anymore and I'm not sure what solved it because I tried so many things. It would seem an idea for Apple to work on it for their next update.
Same issue, even if I let it go to sleep. What ever to happened to ..."It just works"???
Big Sur Wallpaper Issue
